B2 English test (GESE Grade 7)

Who will need this test?

The Trinity B2 GESE Grade 7 exam is a 15 minute speaking and listening test that can be taken at an approved Trinity SELT centre. The test is used to prove your level of English proficiency and is required when applying for:

• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR/Settlement)

On or after 26 March 2027. 

If you are applying for ILR (settlement) through the BN(O), HM Armed Forces or Domestic Worker (Private household) visa routes, you will continue to require a B1 Speaking & Listening test (our GESE Grade 5 exam).

Candidates should always check the official UK Government website for the latest visa guidance and English language requirements before booking a test.

What is a B2 English test?

A B2 English test is a type of Secure English Language Test (SELT) that is needed for a number of UK visa applications. 

The B2 part refers to the level of English you have, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The CEFR guidelines say that someone at the B2 level in English can:

• Understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics.
• Communicate with native speakers in everyday situations very comfortably.
• Explain a viewpoint on an issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

With a SELT test, there are two types offered by Trinity College London; GESE (Graded Examinations in Spoken English) and ISE (Integrated Skills in English).

What are B2 English tests used for?

B2 English tests are used to assess the level of English proficiency a person has. The level of English language ability needed for a Visa application can vary depending on the immigration route. English language test results are needed for the application process for a number of Visas so to find out which level you need it's best to check the UK Government website.      

You will have to pass a B2 English language test if you are applying for:

• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR/Settlement)

On or after 26 March 2027.

How can I prepare for a B2 English test?

The B2 GESE grade 7 is a one-to-one speaking and listening test. These are delivered with Trinity examiners remotely via video conference. If you choose to take your exam in a Trinity SELT centre it will take place on a Trinity tablet device which will be set up by your personal steward.

The exam is 15 minutes long and is split into three parts:

1. Topic Phase

• You will choose a topic that interests you to prepare in advance of the test, for discussion with the examiner.
• You can bring notes, which you should share with the examiner.

2. Interactive Phase

• The examiner will introduce a situation.
• You have to respond by asking the examiner questions to find out more
  information.

3. Conversation Phase

• The examiner chooses two subjects to talk to you about.
• Ask the examiner questions and answer the examiner’s questions.

Prepare for your GESE Grade 7 (B2)

What do you need to take to a SELT test?

If your exam is at a Trinity centre you MUST do the following things in order to take your SELT test:

• Take proof of identity (ID) to the SELT test centre. Please read Trinity's Candidate Identification & Security Policy for Trinity SELTs 
• Make notes on your chosen Topic to take to the exam for discussion with the examiner.

Why choose Trinity for your B2 exam?

Real-life accredited examiners

Trinity College London uses human examiners to run SELT tests. This allows for more flexibility than computer-adapted tests do.

 

Convenient locations

With over 20 SELT test centres across the UK, Trinity offers tests seven days a week. You can choose from 100's of slots based on the date, time, and location that works best for you.

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Fast indication of result

Provisional GESE results are emailed by 9am the day after the exam, a link to access your digital certificate is emailed within 4-7 days after the exam date.

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